(1) In accordance with 34 CFR 300.301(b) either a parent or a public agency, as defined in 34 CFR 300.33, may initiate a request for an initial evaluation.

(2) A local educational agency shall establish procedures for requesting an initial evaluation which include methods for collecting information to determine whether a comprehensive educational evaluation is necessary and the types of evaluations warranted.

(a) When the request for initial evaluation is made by an LEA, the request must include a statement of the reasons for the request, including documentation of regular education interventions for students enrolled in school, and the signature or electronic signature of the person making the request.

(b) When the request for initial evaluation is made by a parent, the request must include a statement of the reasons for the request and the signature or electronic signature of the person making the request.

(c) All requests shall document the suspicion that the student may have a disability which adversely affects the student's educational performance to the degree that the student needs special education and related services.

(d) If a comprehensive educational evaluation in accordance with 34 CFR 300.301 through 300.311 is warranted, the local educational agency shall obtain consent of the parent before conducting a comprehensive educational evaluation.

(3) If the local educational agency does not suspect that the child has a disability and denies the request for an initial evaluation, the local educational agency must provide written notice to the parents, consistent with 34 CFR 300.503(b) of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The parent may challenge such a refusal by requesting a due process hearing.